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Gloria A, Contri A, Mele E, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Meccariello R. Kisspeptin Receptor on the Sperm Surface Reflects Epididymal Maturation in the Dog. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221810120. [PMID: 34576283 PMCID: PMC8466692 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Alongside the well-known central modulatory role, the Kisspeptin system, comprising Kiss1, its cleavage products (Kisspeptins), and Kisspeptin receptor (Kiss1R), was found to regulate gonadal functions in vertebrates; however, its functional role in the male gamete and its localization during maturation have been poorly understood. The present study analyzed Kisspeptin system in dog testis and spermatozoa recovered from different segments of the epididymis, with focus on Kiss1R on sperm surface alongside the maturation during epididymal transit, demonstrated by modification in sperm kinetic, morphology, and protamination. The proteins Kiss1 and Kiss1R were detected in dog testis. The receptor Kiss1R only was detected in total protein extracts from epididymis spermatozoa, whereas dot blot revealed Kiss1 immunoreactivity in the epidydimal fluid. An increase of the Kiss1R protein on sperm surface along the length of the epididymis, with spermatozoa in the tail showing plasma membrane integrity and Kiss1R protein (p < 0.05 vs. epididymis head and body) was observed by flow cytometry and further confirmed by epifluorescence microscopy and Western blot carried on sperm membrane preparations. In parallel, during the transit in the epididymis spermatozoa significantly modified their ability to move and the pattern of motility; a progressive increase in protaminization also occurred. In conclusion, Kisspeptin system was detected in dog testis and spermatozoa. Kiss1R trafficking toward plasma membrane along the length of the epididymis and Kiss1 in epididymal fluid suggested a new functional role of the Kisspeptin system in sperm maturation and storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Gloria
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy;
| | - Alberto Contri
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technologies for Agriculture Food and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (R.M.)
| | - Elena Mele
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, Parthenope University of Naples, 80133 Naples, Italy;
| | - Silvia Fasano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (S.F.); (R.P.)
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (S.F.); (R.P.)
| | - Rosaria Meccariello
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, Parthenope University of Naples, 80133 Naples, Italy;
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (R.M.)
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2
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Mata-Martínez E, Sánchez-Cárdenas C, Chávez JC, Guerrero A, Treviño CL, Corkidi G, Montoya F, Hernandez-Herrera P, Buffone MG, Balestrini PA, Darszon A. Role of calcium oscillations in sperm physiology. Biosystems 2021; 209:104524. [PMID: 34453988 DOI: 10.1016/j.biosystems.2021.104524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Intracellular Ca2+ is a key regulator of cell signaling and sperm are not the exception. Cells often use cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) oscillations as a means to decodify external and internal information. [Ca2+]i oscillations faster than those usually found in other cells and correlated with flagellar beat were the first to be described in sperm in 1993 by Susan Suarez, in the boar. More than 20 years passed before similar [Ca2+]i oscillations were documented in human sperm, simultaneously examining their flagellar beat in three dimensions by Corkidi et al. 2017. On the other hand, 10 years after the discovery of the fast boar [Ca2+]i oscillations, slower ones triggered by compounds from the egg external envelope were found to regulate cell motility and chemotaxis in sperm from marine organisms. Today it is known that sperm display fast and slow spontaneous and agonist triggered [Ca2+]i oscillations. In mammalian sperm these Ca2+ transients may act like a multifaceted tool that regulates fundamental functions such as motility and acrosome reaction. This review covers the main sperm species and experimental conditions where [Ca2+]i oscillations have been described and discusses what is known about the transporters involved, their regulation and the physiological purpose of these oscillations. There is a lot to be learned regarding the origin, regulation and physiological relevance of these Ca2+ oscillations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esperanza Mata-Martínez
- Laboratorio de Fusión de Membranas y Exocitosis Acrosomal, Instituto de Histología y Embriología Dr. Mario H. Burgos (IHEM) Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, CONICET, Mendoza, Argentina.
| | - Claudia Sánchez-Cárdenas
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología (IBT), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.
| | - Julio C Chávez
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología (IBT), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.
| | - Adán Guerrero
- Laboratorio Nacional de Microscopía Avanzada, IBT, UNAM, Mexico.
| | - Claudia L Treviño
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología (IBT), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.
| | - Gabriel Corkidi
- Departamento de Ingeniería Celular y Biocatálisis, Laboratorio de Imágenes y Visión por Computadora, IBT, UNAM, Mexico.
| | - Fernando Montoya
- Departamento de Ingeniería Celular y Biocatálisis, Laboratorio de Imágenes y Visión por Computadora, IBT, UNAM, Mexico.
| | - Paul Hernandez-Herrera
- Departamento de Ingeniería Celular y Biocatálisis, Laboratorio de Imágenes y Visión por Computadora, IBT, UNAM, Mexico.
| | - Mariano G Buffone
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Paula A Balestrini
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Alberto Darszon
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología (IBT), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.
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Occurrence of Calcium Oscillations in Human Spermatozoa Is Based on Spatial Signaling Enzymes Distribution. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22158018. [PMID: 34360784 PMCID: PMC8347727 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In human spermatozoa, calcium dynamics control most of fertilization events. Progesterone, present in the female reproductive system, can trigger several types of calcium responses, such as low-frequency oscillations. Here we aimed to identify the mechanisms of progesterone-induced calcium signaling in human spermatozoa. Progesterone-induced activation of fluorophore-loaded spermatozoa was studied by fluorescent microscopy. Two computational models were developed to describe the spermatozoa calcium responses: a homogeneous one based on a system of ordinary differential equations and a three-dimensional one with added space dimensions and diffusion for the cytosolic species. In response to progesterone, three types of calcium responses were observed in human spermatozoa: a single transient rise of calcium concentration in cytosol, a steady elevation, or low-frequency oscillations. The homogenous model provided qualitative description of the oscillatory and the single spike responses, while the three-dimensional model captured the calcium peak shape and the frequency of calcium oscillations. The model analysis demonstrated that an increase in the calcium diffusion coefficient resulted in the disappearance of the calcium oscillations. Additionally, in silico analysis suggested that the spatial distribution of calcium signaling enzymes governs the appearance of calcium oscillations in progesterone-activated human spermatozoa.
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Jeschke JK, Biagioni C, Schierling T, Wagner IV, Börgel F, Schepmann D, Schüring A, Kulle AE, Holterhus PM, von Wolff M, Wünsch B, Nordhoff V, Strünker T, Brenker C. The Action of Reproductive Fluids and Contained Steroids, Prostaglandins, and Zn 2+ on CatSper Ca 2+ Channels in Human Sperm. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:699554. [PMID: 34381781 PMCID: PMC8350739 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.699554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The sperm-specific Ca2+ channel CatSper registers chemical cues that assist human sperm to fertilize the egg. Prime examples are progesterone and prostaglandin E1 that activate CatSper without involving classical nuclear and G protein-coupled receptors, respectively. Here, we study the action of seminal and follicular fluid as well of the contained individual prostaglandins and steroids on the intracellular Ca2+ concentration of sperm from donors and CATSPER2-deficient patients that lack functional CatSper channels. We show that any of the reproductive steroids and prostaglandins evokes a rapid Ca2+ increase that invariably rests on Ca2+ influx via CatSper. The hormones compete for the same steroid- and prostaglandin-binding site to activate the channel, respectively. Analysis of the hormones’ structure–activity relationship highlights their unique pharmacology in sperm and the chemical features determining their effective properties. Finally, we show that Zn2+ suppresses the action of steroids and prostaglandins on CatSper, which might prevent premature prostaglandin activation of CatSper in the ejaculate, aiding sperm to escape from the ejaculate into the female genital tract. Altogether, our findings reinforce that human CatSper serves as a promiscuous chemosensor that enables sperm to probe the varying hormonal microenvironment prevailing at different stages during their journey across the female genital tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice K Jeschke
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Cristina Biagioni
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Tobias Schierling
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Isabel Viola Wagner
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Lübeck, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Frederik Börgel
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Dirk Schepmann
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Andreas Schüring
- UKM Kinderwunschzentrum, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Alexandra E Kulle
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Pediatrics, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Paul Martin Holterhus
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Pediatrics, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Michael von Wolff
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Bernhard Wünsch
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Verena Nordhoff
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Timo Strünker
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.,Cells in Motion Interfaculty Centre, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Christoph Brenker
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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5
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Balestrini PA, Sanchez-Cardenas C, Luque GM, Baro Graf C, Sierra JM, Hernández-Cruz A, Visconti PE, Krapf D, Darszon A, Buffone MG. Membrane hyperpolarization abolishes calcium oscillations that prevent induced acrosomal exocytosis in human sperm. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21478. [PMID: 33991146 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202002333rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Sperm capacitation is essential to gain fertilizing capacity. During this process, a series of biochemical and physiological modifications occur that allow sperm to undergo acrosomal exocytosis (AE). At the molecular level, hyperpolarization of the sperm membrane potential (Em) takes place during capacitation. This study shows that human sperm incubated under conditions that do not support capacitation (NC) can become ready for an agonist stimulated AE by pharmacologically inducing Em hyperpolarization with Valinomycin or Amiloride. To investigate how Em hyperpolarization promotes human sperm's ability to undergo AE, live single-cell imaging experiments were performed to simultaneously monitor changes in [Ca2+ ]i and the occurrence of AE. Em hyperpolarization turned [Ca2+ ]i dynamics in NC sperm from spontaneously oscillating into a sustained slow [Ca2+ ]i increase. The addition of progesterone (P4) or K+ to Valinomycin-treated sperm promoted that a significant number of cells displayed a transitory rise in [Ca2+ ]i which then underwent AE. Altogether, our results demonstrate that Em hyperpolarization is necessary and sufficient to prepare human sperm for the AE. Furthermore, this Em change decreased Ca2+ oscillations that block the occurrence of AE, providing strong experimental evidence of the molecular mechanism that drives the acquisition of acrosomal responsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula A Balestrini
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Claudia Sanchez-Cardenas
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, México
| | - Guillermina M Luque
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Baro Graf
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) Ciudad Universitaria, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Jessica M Sierra
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Arturo Hernández-Cruz
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) Ciudad Universitaria, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Pablo E Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Paige Labs, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Dario Krapf
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (CONICET-UNR), Rosario, Argentina
| | - Alberto Darszon
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, México
| | - Mariano G Buffone
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Torrezan-Nitao E, Brown SG, Mata-Martínez E, Treviño CL, Barratt C, Publicover S. [Ca2+]i oscillations in human sperm are triggered in the flagellum by membrane potential-sensitive activity of CatSper. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:293-304. [PMID: 33305795 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How are progesterone (P4)-induced repetitive intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) signals (oscillations) in human sperm generated? SUMMARY ANSWER P4-induced [Ca2+]i oscillations are generated in the flagellum by membrane potential (Vm)-sensitive Ca2+-influx through CatSper channels. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY A subset of human sperm display [Ca2+]i oscillations that regulate flagellar beating and acrosome reaction. Although pharmacological manipulations indicate involvement of stored Ca2+ in these oscillations, influx of extracellular Ca2+ is also required. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a laboratory study that used >20 sperm donors and involved more than 100 separate experiments and analysis of more than 1000 individual cells over a period of 2 years. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Semen donors and patients were recruited in accordance with local ethics approval from Birmingham University and Tayside ethics committees. [Ca2+]i responses and Vm of individual cells were examined by fluorescence imaging and whole-cell current clamp. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE P4-induced [Ca2+]i oscillations originated in the flagellum, spreading to the neck and head (latency of 1-2 s). K+-ionophore valinomycin (1 µM) was used to investigate the role of membrane potential (Vm). Direct assessment by whole-cell current-clamp confirmed that Vm in valinomycin-exposed cells was determined primarily by K+ equilibrium potential (EK) and was rapidly 'reset' upon manipulation of [K+]o. Pre-treatment of sperm with valinomycin ([K+]o = 5.4 mM) had no effect on the P4-induced [Ca2+] transient (P = 0.95; eight experiments), but application of valinomycin to P4-pretreated sperm suppressed activity in 82% of oscillating cells (n = 257; P = 5 × 10-55 compared to control) and significantly reduced both the amplitude and frequency of persisting oscillations (P = 0.0001). Upon valinomycin washout, oscillations re-started in most cells. When valinomycin was applied in saline with elevated [K+], the inhibitory effect of valinomycin was reduced and was dependent on EK (P = 10-25). Amplitude and frequency of [Ca2+]i oscillations that persisted in the presence of valinomycin showed similar sensitivity to EK (P < 0.01). The CatSper inhibitor RU1968 (4.8 and 11 µM) caused immediate and reversible arrest of activity in 36% and 96% of oscillating cells, respectively (P < 10-10). Quinidine (300 µM) which blocks the sperm K+ current (IKsper) completely, inhibited [Ca2+]i oscillations. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This was an in-vitro study and caution must be taken when extrapolating these results to in-vivo regulation of sperm. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS [Ca2+]i oscillations in human sperm are functionally important and their absence is associated with failed fertilisation at IVF. The data reported here provide new understanding of the mechanisms that underlie the regulation and generation (or failure) of these oscillations. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) E.T.-N. was in receipt of a postgraduate scholarship from the CAPES Foundation (Ministry of Education, Brazil). E.M-M received travel funds from the Programa de Apoyo a los Estudios de Posgrado (Maestria y Doctorado en Ciencias Bioquimicas-Universidad Autonoma de Mexico). SGB and CLRB are recipients of a Chief Scientist Office (NHS Scotland) grant TCS/17/28. The authors have no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sean G Brown
- School of Applied Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, Abertay University, Dundee DD11HG, UK
| | - Esperanza Mata-Martínez
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62210, México
| | - Claudia L Treviño
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62210, México
| | - Christopher Barratt
- Systems Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
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Rahban R, Nef S. CatSper: The complex main gate of calcium entry in mammalian spermatozoa. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 518:110951. [PMID: 32712386 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Calcium ions (Ca2+) are involved in nearly every aspect of cellular life. They are one of the most abundant elements in mammals and play a vital role in physiological and biochemical processes acting mainly as intracellular messengers. In spermatozoa, several key functions are regulated by cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration such as sperm capacitation, chemotaxis, hyperactive motility, and acrosome reaction. The sperm-specific ion channel CatSper is the principal calcium channel in sperm mediating the calcium influx into the sperm flagellum and acting as an essential modulator of downstream mechanisms involved in fertilization. This review aims to provide insights into the structure, localization, and function of the mammalian CatSper channel, primarily human and mice. The activation of CatSper by progesterone and prostaglandins, as well as the ligand-independent regulation of the channel by a change in the membrane voltage and intracellular pH are going to be addressed. Finally, major questions, challenges, and perspectives are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Rahban
- Swiss Centre for Applied Human Toxicology (SCAHT), Switzerland; Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Rue Michel-Servet 1, 1206, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Serge Nef
- Swiss Centre for Applied Human Toxicology (SCAHT), Switzerland; Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Rue Michel-Servet 1, 1206, Geneva, Switzerland.
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Tamburrino L, Marchiani S, Muratori M, Luconi M, Baldi E. Progesterone, spermatozoa and reproduction: An updated review. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 516:110952. [PMID: 32712385 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The rapid effects of steroids on spermatozoa have been demonstrated for the first time more than three decades ago. Progesterone (P), which is present throughout the female genital tract with peaks of levels in the cumulus matrix surrounding the oocyte, has been shown to stimulate several sperm functions in vitro, including capacitation, hyperactivation, chemotaxis and acrosome reaction (AR). Besides an increase of intracellular calcium, P has been shown to activate other sperm signalling pathways including tyrosine phosphorylation of several sperm proteins. All these effects are mediated by extra-nuclear pathways likely involving interaction with molecules present on the sperm surface. In particular, the increase in intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) in spermatozoa from human and several other mammalian species is mediated by the sperm specific calcium channel CatSper, whose expression and function are required for sperm hyperactive motility. P-mediated CatSper activation is indeed involved in promoting sperm hyperactivation, but the involvement of this channel in other P-stimulated sperm functions, such as AR and chemotaxis, is less clear and further studies are required to disclose all the involved pathways. In human spermatozoa, responsiveness to P in terms of [Ca2+]i increase and AR is highly related to sperm fertilizing ability in vitro, suggesting that the steroid is a physiological inducer of AR during in vitro fertilization. In view of their physiological relevance, P-stimulated sperm functions are currently investigated to develop new tools to select highly performant spermatozoa for assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Tamburrino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Sara Marchiani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Monica Muratori
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Science, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Michaela Luconi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Science, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Baldi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy.
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9
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Achikanu C, Correia J, Guidobaldi HA, Giojalas LC, Barratt CLR, Da Silva SM, Publicover S. Continuous behavioural 'switching' in human spermatozoa and its regulation by Ca2+-mobilising stimuli. Mol Hum Reprod 2020; 25:423-432. [PMID: 31194869 PMCID: PMC6736438 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaz034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Human sperm show a variety of different behaviours (types of motility) that have different functional roles. Previous reports suggest that sperm may reversibly switch between these behaviours. We have recorded and analysed the behaviour of individual human sperm (180 cells in total), each cell monitored continuously for 3–3.5 min either under control conditions or in the presence of Ca2+-mobilising stimuli. Switching between different behaviours was assessed visually (1 s bins using four behaviour categories), and was verified by fractal dimension analysis of sperm head tracks. In the absence of stimuli, ~90% of cells showed at least one behavioural transition (mean rate under control conditions = 6.4 ± 0.8 transitions.min−1). Type 1 behaviour (progressive, activated-like motility) was most common, but the majority of cells (>70%) displayed at least three behaviour types. Treatment of sperm with Ca2+-mobilising agonists had negligible effects on the rate of switching but increased the time spent in type 2 and type 3 (hyperactivation-like) behaviours (P < 2*10−8; chi-square). Treatment with 4-aminopyridine under alkaline conditions (pHo = 8.5), a highly-potent Ca2+-mobilising stimulus, was the most effective in increasing the proportion of type 3 behaviour, biasing switching away from type 1 (P < 0.005) and dramatically extending the duration of type 3 events (P < 10−16). Other stimuli, including 300 nM progesterone and 1% human follicular fluid, had qualitatively similar effects but were less potent. We conclude that human sperm observed in vitro constitutively display a range of behaviours and regulation of motility by [Ca2+]i, at the level of the single cell, is achieved not by causing cells to adopt a ‘new’ behaviour but by changing the relative contributions of those behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cosmas Achikanu
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Joao Correia
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Héctor A Guidobaldi
- Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales, Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular, Av. Vélez Sarsfield 1611, CP X5016GCA, Córdoba, Argentina.,Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas, UNC, CONICET, FCEFyN, Av. Vélez Sarsfield 1611, CP X5016GCA, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Laura C Giojalas
- Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales, Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular, Av. Vélez Sarsfield 1611, CP X5016GCA, Córdoba, Argentina.,Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas, UNC, CONICET, FCEFyN, Av. Vélez Sarsfield 1611, CP X5016GCA, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Christopher L R Barratt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee DD19SY, UK.,University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK 4Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | - Sarah Martins Da Silva
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee DD19SY, UK.,University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK 4Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | - Stephen Publicover
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Centre for Human Reproductive Science, University of Birmingham, UK
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Brown SG, Publicover SJ, Barratt CLR, Martins da Silva SJ. Human sperm ion channel (dys)function: implications for fertilization. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 25:758-776. [PMID: 31665287 PMCID: PMC6847974 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 07/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intensive research on sperm ion channels has identified members of several ion channel families in both mouse and human sperm. Gene knock-out studies have unequivocally demonstrated the importance of the calcium and potassium conductances in sperm for fertility. In both species, the calcium current is carried by the highly complex cation channel of sperm (CatSper). In mouse sperm, the potassium current has been conclusively shown to be carried by a channel consisting of the pore forming subunit SLO3 and auxiliary subunit leucine-rich repeat-containing 52 (LRRC52). However, in human sperm it is controversial whether the pore forming subunit of the channel is composed of SLO3 and/or SLO1. Deciphering the role of the proton-specific Hv1 channel is more challenging as it is only expressed in human sperm. However, definitive evidence for a role in, and importance for, human fertility can only be determined through studies using clinical samples. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review aims to provide insight into the role of sperm ion channels in human fertilization as evidenced from recent studies of sperm from infertile men. We also summarize the key discoveries from mouse ion channel knock-out models and contrast the properties of mouse and human CatSper and potassium currents. We detail the evidence for, and consequences of, defective ion channels in human sperm and discuss hypotheses to explain how defects arise and why affected sperm have impaired fertilization potential. SEARCH METHODS Relevant studies were identified using PubMed and were limited to ion channels that have been characterized in mouse and human sperm. Additional notable examples from other species are included as appropriate. OUTCOMES There are now well-documented fundamental differences between the properties of CatSper and potassium channel currents in mouse and human sperm. However, in both species, sperm lacking either channel cannot fertilize in vivo and CatSper-null sperm also fail to fertilize at IVF. Sperm-lacking potassium currents are capable of fertilizing at IVF, albeit at a much lower rate. However, additional complex and heterogeneous ion channel dysfunction has been reported in sperm from infertile men, the causes of which are unknown. Similarly, the nature of the functional impairment of affected patient sperm remains elusive. There are no reports of studies of Hv1 in human sperm from infertile men. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Recent studies using sperm from infertile men have given new insight and critical evidence supporting the supposition that calcium and potassium conductances are essential for human fertility. However, it should be highlighted that many fundamental questions remain regarding the nature of molecular and functional defects in sperm with dysfunctional ion channels. The development and application of advanced technologies remains a necessity to progress basic and clinical research in this area, with the aim of providing effective screening methodologies to identify and develop treatments for affected men in order to help prevent failed ART cycles. Conversely, development of drugs that block calcium and/or potassium conductances in sperm is a plausible strategy for producing sperm-specific contraceptives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean G Brown
- School of Applied Sciences, Abertay University, Dundee DD11HG, UK
| | | | - Christopher L R Barratt
- Systems Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | - Sarah J Martins da Silva
- Systems Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
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Soriano-Úbeda C, Romero-Aguirregomezcorta J, Matás C, Visconti PE, García-Vázquez FA. Manipulation of bicarbonate concentration in sperm capacitation media improvesin vitro fertilisation output in porcine species. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2019; 10:19. [PMID: 30899459 PMCID: PMC6410524 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-019-0324-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The in vivo concentration of bicarbonate (HCO3 -), one of the essential sperm capacitating effectors, varies greatly in the different environments sperm go through from cauda epididymis to the fertilisation site. On the contrary, porcine in vitro sperm capacitation and fertilisation media usually contains a standard concentration of 25 mmol/L, and one of the main problems presented is the unacceptable high incidence of polyspermy. This work hypothesised that by modifying the HCO3 - concentration of the medium, the output of in vitro sperm capacitation and fertilisation could be increased. Results Once exposed to the capacitation medium, the intracellular pH (pHi) of spermatozoa increased immediately even at low concentrations of HCO3 -, but only extracellular concentrations of and above 15 mmol/L increased the substrates protein kinase A phosphorylation (pPKAs). Although with a significant delay, 15 mmol/L of HCO3 - stimulated sperm linear motility and increased other late events in capacitation such as tyrosine phosphorylation (Tyr-P) to levels similar to those obtained with 25 mmol/L. This information allowed the establishment of a new in vitro fertilisation (IVF) system based on the optimization of HCO3 - concentration to 15 mmol/L, which led to a 25.3% increment of the viable zygotes (8.6% in the standard system vs. 33.9%). Conclusions Optimising HCO3 - concentrations allows for establishing an IVF method that significantly reduced porcine polyspermy and increased the production of viable zygotes. A concentration of 15 mmol/L of HCO3 - in the medium is sufficient to trigger the in vitro sperm capacitation and increase the fertilisation efficiency in porcine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Soriano-Úbeda
- 1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain.,2Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - Jon Romero-Aguirregomezcorta
- 3Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Bizkaia Spain
| | - Carmen Matás
- 1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain.,2Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - Pablo E Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA USA
| | - Francisco A García-Vázquez
- 1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain.,2Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
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12
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Kelly MC, Brown SG, Costello SM, Ramalingam M, Drew E, Publicover SJ, Barratt CLR, Martins Da Silva S. Single-cell analysis of [Ca2+]i signalling in sub-fertile men: characteristics and relation to fertilization outcome. Hum Reprod 2018; 33:1023-1033. [PMID: 29697805 PMCID: PMC5972555 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Revised: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the characteristics of progesterone-induced (CatSper-mediated) single cell [Ca2+]i signals in spermatozoa from sub-fertile men and how do they relate to fertilizing ability? SUMMARY ANSWER Single cell analysis of progesterone-induced (CatSper-mediated) [Ca2+]i showed that reduced progesterone-sensitivity is a common feature of sperm from sub-fertile patients and is correlated with fertilization rate. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Stimulation with progesterone is a widely used method for assessing [Ca2+]i mobilization by activation of CatSper in human spermatozoa. Although data are limited, sperm population studies have indicated an association of poor [Ca2+]i response to progesterone with reduced fertilization ability. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a cohort study using semen samples from 21 donors and 101 patients attending the assisted conception unit at Ninewells Hospital Dundee who were undergoing ART treatment. Patients were recruited from January 2016 to June 2017. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Semen donors and patients were recruited in accordance with local ethics approval (13/ES/0091) from the East of Scotland Research Ethics Service (EoSRES) REC1. [Ca2+]i responses were examined by single cell imaging and motility parameters assessed by computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE For analysis, patient samples were divided into three groups IVF(+ve) (successful fertilization; 62 samples), IVF-FF (failed fertilization; eight samples) and ICSI (21 samples). A further 10 IVF samples showed large, spontaneous [Ca2+]i oscillations and responses to progesterone could not be analysed. All patient samples loaded with the [Ca2+]i-indicator fluo4 responded to progesterone stimulation with a biphasic increase in fluorescence (transient followed by plateau) which resembled that seen in progesterone-stimulated donor samples. The mean normalized response (progesterone-induced increase in fluorescence normalized to resting level) was significantly smaller in IVF-FF and ICSI patient groups than in donors. All samples were further analysed by plotting, for each cell, the relationship between resting fluorescence intensity and the progesterone-induced fluorescence increment. In donor samples these plots overlaid closely and had a gradient of ≈ 2 and plots for most IVF(+ve) samples closely resembled the donor distribution. However, in a subset (≈ 10%) of IVF(+ve) samples, 3/8 IVF-FF samples and one-third of ICSI samples the gradient of the plot was significantly lower, indicating that the response to progesterone of the cells in these samples was abnormally small. Examination of the relationship between gradient (regression coefficient of the plot) in IVF samples and fertilization rate showed a positive correlation. In IVF-FF and ICSI groups, the proportion of cells in which a response to progesterone could be detected was significantly lower than in donors and IVF (+ve) patients. Approximately 20% of cells in donor, IVF(+ve) and ICSI samples generated [Ca2+]i oscillations when challenged with progesterone but in IVF-FF samples only ≈ 10% of cells generated oscillations and there was a significantly greater proportion of samples where no oscillations were observed. Levels of hyperactivated motility were lower in IVF(+ve) and IVF-FF groups compared to controls, IVF-FF also having lower levels than IVF(+ve). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This is an in vitro study and caution must be taken when extrapolating these results in vivo. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study reveals important details of impaired [Ca2+]i signalling in sperm from sub-fertile men that cannot be detected in population studies. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by a MRC project grant (MR/M012492/1; MR/K013343/1). Additional funding was provided by Chief Scientist Office/NHS research Scotland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark C Kelly
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | - Sean G Brown
- School of Science, Engineering & Technology, Abertay University, Dundee DD11HG, UK
| | - Sarah M Costello
- School of Biosciences, The University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Mythili Ramalingam
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
- Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | - Ellen Drew
- Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | | | - Christopher L R Barratt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
- Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | - Sarah Martins Da Silva
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
- Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD19SY, UK
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13
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Responsiveness to progesterone and potassium channel blockers 4-aminopyridine, tetraethylammonium and free Ca(2+) contentration in spermatozoa of patients with oligozoospermia/leucocytospermia. UKRAINIAN BIOCHEMICAL JOURNAL 2018. [DOI: 10.15407/ubj90.01.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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Brown SG, Costello S, Kelly MC, Ramalingam M, Drew E, Publicover SJ, Barratt CL, Da Silva SM. Complex CatSper-dependent and independent [Ca2+]i signalling in human spermatozoa induced by follicular fluid. Hum Reprod 2017; 32:1995-2006. [PMID: 28938737 PMCID: PMC5850303 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Revised: 07/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does progesterone in human follicular fluid (hFF) activate CatSper and do other components of hFF modulate this effect and/or contribute separately to hFF-induced Ca2+ signaling? SUMMARY ANSWER hFF potently stimulates CatSper and increases [Ca2+]i, primarily due to high concentrations of progesterone, however, other components of hFF also contribute to [Ca2+]i signaling, including modulation of CatSper channel activity and inhibition of [Ca2+]i oscillations. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY CatSper, the principal Ca2+ channel in spermatozoa, is progesterone-sensitive and essential for fertility. Both hFF and progesterone, which is present in hFF, influence sperm function and increase their [Ca2+]i. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This basic medical research study used semen samples from >40 donors and hFF from >50 patients who were undergoing surgical oocyte retrieval for IVF/ICSI. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Semen donors and patients were recruited in accordance with local ethics approval (13/ES/0091) from the East of Scotland Research Ethics Service REC1. Activities of CatSper and KSper were assessed by patch clamp electrophysiology. Sperm [Ca2+]i responses were examined in sperm populations and single cells. Computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) parameters and penetration into viscous media were used to assess functional effects. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE hFF and progesterone significantly potentiated CatSper currents. Under quasi-physiological conditions, hFF (up to 50%) failed to alter membrane K+ conductance or current reversal potential. hFF and progesterone (at an equivalent concentration) stimulated similar biphasic [Ca2+]i signals both in sperm populations and single cells. At a high hFF concentration (10%), the sustained (plateau) component of the [Ca2+]i signal was consistently greater than that induced by progesterone alone. In single cell recordings, 1% hFF-induced [Ca2+]i oscillations similarly to progesterone but with 10% hFF generation of [Ca2+]i oscillations was suppressed. After treatment to 'strip' lipid-derived mediators, hFF failed to significantly stimulate CatSper currents but induced small [Ca2+]i responses that were greater than those induced by the equivalent concentration of progesterone after stripping. Similar [Ca2+]i responses were observed when sperm pretreated with 3 μM progesterone (to desensitize progesterone responses) were stimulated with hFF or stripped hFF. hFF stimulated viscous media penetration and was more effective than the equivalent does of progesterone. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This was an in vitro study. Caution must be taken when extrapolating these results in vivo. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study directly demonstrates that hFF activates CatSper and establishes that the biologically important effects of hFF reflect, at least in part, action on this channel, primarily via progesterone. However, these experiments also demonstrate that other components of hFF both contribute to the [Ca2+]i signal and modulate the activation of CatSper. Simple in vitro experiments performed out of the context of the complex in vivo environment need to be interpreted with caution. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Funding was provided by MRC (MR/K013343/1, MR/012492/1) (S.G.B., S.J.P., C.L.R.B.) and University of Abertay (sabbatical for S.G.B.). Additional funding was provided by TENOVUS SCOTLAND (S.M.D.S.), Chief Scientist Office/NHS Research Scotland (S.M.D.S). C.L.R.B. is EIC of MHR and Chair of the WHO ESG on Diagnosis of Male infertility. The remaining authors have no conlicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean G. Brown
- School of Science, Engineering and Technology, Abertay University, Dundee DD11HG, UK
| | - Sarah Costello
- School of Biosciences, The University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Mark C. Kelly
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | - Mythili Ramalingam
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
- Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | - Ellen Drew
- Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | | | - Christopher L.R. Barratt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
- Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | - Sarah Martins Da Silva
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
- Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
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15
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Ayala EME, Aragón MA. Effect of sexual steroids on boar kinematic sperm subpopulations. Cytometry A 2017; 91:1096-1103. [PMID: 28940889 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.a.23246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Revised: 08/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Here, we show the effects of sexual steroids, progesterone, testosterone, or estradiol on motility parameters of boar sperm. Sixteen commercial seminal doses, four each of four adult boars, were analyzed using computer assisted sperm analysis (CASA). Mean values of motility parameters were analyzed by bivariate and multivariate statistics. Principal component analysis (PCA), followed by hierarchical clustering, was applied on data of motility parameters, provided automatically as intervals by the CASA system. Effects of sexual steroids were described in the kinematic subpopulations identified from multivariate statistics. Mean values of motility parameters were not significantly changed after addition of sexual steroids. Multivariate graphics showed that sperm subpopulations were not sensitive to the addition of either testosterone or estradiol, but sperm subpopulations responsive to progesterone were found. Distribution of motility parameters were wide in controls but sharpened at distinct concentrations of progesterone. We conclude that kinematic sperm subpopulations responsive to progesterone are present in boar semen, and these subpopulations are masked in evaluations of mean values of motility parameters. © 2017 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M E Ayala
- Laboratorio de Pubertad, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, UNAM. AP 9-020, Unidad de Investigación en Biología de la Reproducción, Distrito Federal, CP 15000, México
| | - M A Aragón
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Los Reyes Iztacala, Tlalnepantla, Estado de México, C.P. 54090, México
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Wozniak KL, Mayfield BL, Duray AM, Tembo M, Beleny DO, Napolitano MA, Sauer ML, Wisner BW, Carlson AE. Extracellular Ca2+ Is Required for Fertilization in the African Clawed Frog, Xenopus laevis. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0170405. [PMID: 28114360 PMCID: PMC5256882 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0170405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The necessity of extracellular Ca2+ for fertilization and early embryonic development in the African clawed frog, Xenopus laevis, is controversial. Ca2+ entry into X. laevis sperm is reportedly required for the acrosome reaction, yet fertilization and embryonic development have been documented to occur in high concentrations of the Ca2+ chelator BAPTA. Here we sought to resolve this controversy. Methodology/principal finding Using the appearance of cleavage furrows as an indicator of embryonic development, we found that X. laevis eggs inseminated in a solution lacking added divalent cations developed normally. By contrast, eggs inseminated in millimolar concentrations of BAPTA or EGTA failed to develop. Transferring embryos to varying solutions after sperm addition, we found that extracellular Ca2+ is specifically required for events occurring within the first 30 minutes after sperm addition, but not after. We found that the fluorescently stained sperm were not able to penetrate the envelope of eggs inseminated in high BAPTA, whereas several had penetrated the vitelline envelope of eggs inseminated without a Ca2+ chelator, or with BAPTA and saturating CaCl2. Together these results indicate that fertilization does not occur in high concentrations of Ca2+ chelators. Finally, we found that the jelly coat includes >5 mM of readily diffusible Ca2+. Conclusions/Significance Taken together, these data are consistent with requirement of extracellular Ca2+ for fertilization. Based on our findings, we hypothesize that the jelly coat surrounding the egg acts as a reserve of readily available Ca2+ ions to foster fertilization in changing extracellular milieu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine L. Wozniak
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Brianna L. Mayfield
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Alexis M. Duray
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Maiwase Tembo
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - David O. Beleny
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Marc A. Napolitano
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Monica L. Sauer
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Bennett W. Wisner
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Anne E. Carlson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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17
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Li LH, Tian XR, Jiang Z, Zeng LW, He WF, Hu ZP. The Golgi Apparatus: Panel Point of Cytosolic Ca(2+) Regulation. Neurosignals 2016; 21:272-84. [PMID: 23796968 DOI: 10.1159/000350471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2012] [Accepted: 03/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The Golgi apparatus (GA), an intermediate organelle of the cell inner membrane system, plays a key role in protein glycosylation and secretion. In recent years, this organelle has been found to act as a vital intracellular Ca(2+) store because different Ca (2+) regulators, such as the inositol-1,4,5-triphosphate receptor, sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) -ATPase and secretory pathway Ca 2+ -ATPase, were demonstrated to localize on their membrane. The mechanisms involved in Ca(2+) release and uptake in the GA have now been established.Here, based on careful backward looking on compartments and patterns in GA Ca (2+) regulation, we review neurological diseases related to GA calcium remodeling and propose a modified cytosolic Ca(2+) adjustment model, in which GA acts as part of the panel point.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Hua Li
- Department of Neurology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central-South University, Changsha; School of Medicine, Jishou University, Jishou , PR China
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18
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Sumigama S, Mansell S, Miller M, Lishko PV, Cherr GN, Meyers SA, Tollner T. Progesterone Accelerates the Completion of Sperm Capacitation and Activates CatSper Channel in Spermatozoa from the Rhesus Macaque. Biol Reprod 2015; 93:130. [PMID: 26490839 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.129783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
During transit through the female reproductive tract, mammalian spermatozoa are exposed to increasing concentrations of progesterone (P4) released by the cumulus oophorus. P4 triggers massive calcium influx into human sperm through activation of the sperm-specific calcium channel CatSper. These properties of human spermatozoa are thought to be unique since CatSper is not progesterone sensitive in rodent sperm. Here, by performing patch clamp recording from spermatozoa from rhesus macaque for the first time, we report that they express P4-sensitive CatSper channel identically to human sperm and react to P4 by inducing responsiveness to zona pellucida, unlike human sperm, which respond directly to P4. We have also determined the physiologic levels of P4 capable of inducing capacitation-associated changes in macaque sperm. Progesterone (1 μM) induced up to a 3-fold increase in the percentage of sperm undergoing the zona pellucida-induced acrosome reaction with the lowest threshold as low as 10 nM of P4. Submicromolar levels of P4 induced a dose-dependent increase in curvilinear velocity and lateral head displacement, while sperm protein tyrosine phosphorylation was not altered. Macaque spermatozoa exposed to 10 μM of P4 developed fully hyperactivated motility. Similar to human sperm, on approaching cumulus mass and binding to zona pellucida, macaque spermatozoa display hyperactivation and undergo an acrosome reaction that coincides with the rise in the sperm intracellular calcium. Taken together, these data indicate that P4 accelerates the completion of capacitation and provides evidence of spermatozoa "priming" as they move into a gradient of progesterone in search for the oocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiho Sumigama
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Steven Mansell
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California
| | - Melissa Miller
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California
| | - Polina V Lishko
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California
| | - Gary N Cherr
- Bodega Marine Laboratory, Departments of Environmental Toxicology and Nutrition, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Stuart A Meyers
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Theodore Tollner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, California Center for Health and the Environment, University of California, Davis, California
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19
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Amoako AA, Marczylo TH, Elson J, Taylor AH, Willets JM, Konje JC. Relationship between seminal plasma levels of anandamide congeners palmitoylethanolamide and oleoylethanolamide and semen quality. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:1260-7. [PMID: 25212838 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.07.767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2014] [Revised: 07/09/2014] [Accepted: 07/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether changes in seminal plasma concentrations of the endogenous lipid signaling molecules palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) and oleoylethanolamide (OEA) have significant effects on sperm quality. DESIGN Biochemical and physiological studies of human seminal plasma and spermatozoa. SETTING Academic tertiary care medical center. PATIENT(S) Ninety men attending an infertility clinic for semen analysis. INTERVENTION(S) Palmitoylethanolamide and OEA extracted from seminal plasma were quantified by ultra high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-tandem mass spectrometry. Patient sperm from semen with normal parameters were exposed in vitro to PEA or OEA to determine effects on sperm motility, viability, and mitochondrial activity. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The relationship between seminal plasma concentrations of PEA and OEA and sperm quality and the effect of these compounds on sperm motility, viability, and mitochondria activity in vitro. RESULT(S) Palmitoylethanolamide and OEA concentrations in seminal plasma were lower in men with asthenozoospermia and oligoasthenoteratozospermia compared with men with normal semen parameters. Palmitoylethanolamide and OEA rapidly and significantly improved sperm motility and maintained viability without affecting mitochondria activity in vitro. CONCLUSION(S) Maintenance of normal PEA and OEA tone in human seminal plasma may be necessary for the preservation of normal sperm function and male fertility. Exocannabinoids found in Cannabis, such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, could compete with these endocannabinoids upsetting their finely balanced, normal functioning and resulting in male reproductive failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akwasi Atakora Amoako
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Science Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.
| | - Timothy Hywel Marczylo
- Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Health Protection Agency, Didcot, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | | | - Anthony Henry Taylor
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Science Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathon M Willets
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Science Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Justin Chi Konje
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Science Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
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20
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Sánchez-Cárdenas C, Servín-Vences MR, José O, Treviño CL, Hernández-Cruz A, Darszon A. Acrosome reaction and Ca²⁺ imaging in single human spermatozoa: new regulatory roles of [Ca²⁺]i. Biol Reprod 2014; 91:67. [PMID: 25100708 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.119768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The spermatozoa acrosome reaction (AR) is essential for mammalian fertilization. Few methods allow visualization of AR in real time together with Ca²⁺ imaging. Here, we show that FM4-64, a fluorescent dye used to follow exocytosis, reliably reports AR progression induced by ionomycin and progesterone in human spermatozoa. FM4-64 clearly delimits the spermatozoa contour and reports morphological cell changes before, during, and after AR. This strategy unveiled the formation of moving tubular appendages, emerging from acrosome-reacted spermatozoa, which was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. Alternate wavelength illumination allowed concomitant imaging of FM4-64 and Fluo-4, a Ca²⁺ indicator. These AR and intracellular Ca²⁺ ([Ca²⁺]i) recordings revealed that the presence of [Ca²⁺]i oscillations, both spontaneous and progesterone induced, prevents AR in human spermatozoa. Notably, the progesterone-induced AR is preceded by a second [Ca²⁺]i peak and ~40% of reacting spermatozoa also manifest a slow [Ca²⁺]i rise ~2 min before AR. Our findings uncover new AR features related to [Ca²⁺]i.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Sánchez-Cárdenas
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Martha Rocio Servín-Vences
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Omar José
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Claudia Lydia Treviño
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Arturo Hernández-Cruz
- Departamento de Neurociencia Cognitiva, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, UNAM, Circuito exterior s/n, Ciudad Universitaria, México DF
| | - Alberto Darszon
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
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21
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Schiffer C, Müller A, Egeberg DL, Alvarez L, Brenker C, Rehfeld A, Frederiksen H, Wäschle B, Kaupp UB, Balbach M, Wachten D, Skakkebaek NE, Almstrup K, Strünker T. Direct action of endocrine disrupting chemicals on human sperm. EMBO Rep 2014; 15:758-65. [PMID: 24820036 DOI: 10.15252/embr.201438869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), omnipresent in food, household, and personal care products, have been implicated in adverse trends in human reproduction, including infertility and increasing demand for assisted reproduction. Here, we study the action of 96 ubiquitous EDCs on human sperm. We show that structurally diverse EDCs activate the sperm-specific CatSper channel and, thereby, evoke an intracellular Ca(2+) increase, a motility response, and acrosomal exocytosis. Moreover, EDCs desensitize sperm for physiological CatSper ligands and cooperate in low-dose mixtures to elevate Ca(2+) levels in sperm. We conclude that EDCs interfere with various sperm functions and, thereby, might impair human fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Schiffer
- Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, Abteilung Molekulare Neurosensorik, Bonn, Germany
| | - Astrid Müller
- Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, Abteilung Molekulare Neurosensorik, Bonn, Germany
| | - Dorte L Egeberg
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Luis Alvarez
- Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, Abteilung Molekulare Neurosensorik, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christoph Brenker
- Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, Abteilung Molekulare Neurosensorik, Bonn, Germany
| | - Anders Rehfeld
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Hanne Frederiksen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Benjamin Wäschle
- Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, Abteilung Molekulare Neurosensorik, Bonn, Germany
| | - U Benjamin Kaupp
- Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, Abteilung Molekulare Neurosensorik, Bonn, Germany
| | - Melanie Balbach
- Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, Abteilung Molekulare Neurosensorik, Bonn, Germany
| | - Dagmar Wachten
- Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, Abteilung Molekulare Neurosensorik, Bonn, Germany
| | - Niels E Skakkebaek
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Kristian Almstrup
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Timo Strünker
- Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, Abteilung Molekulare Neurosensorik, Bonn, Germany
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22
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Sugiyama H, Chandler DE. Sperm guidance to the egg finds calcium at the helm. PROTOPLASMA 2014; 251:461-475. [PMID: 24085342 DOI: 10.1007/s00709-013-0550-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2013] [Accepted: 09/05/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Sperm respond to multiple cues during guidance to the egg including chemical attractants, temperature, and fluid flow. Of these, sperm chemotaxis has been studied most extensively-over 100 years-but only recently has it started to be understood at the molecular level. The long gestation in this understanding has largely been due to technical limitations that include the detection of calcium signal dynamics in a relatively small structure-the flagellum, measurement of actual chemoattractant gradients, the fact that only subpopulations of sperm respond at any given time, and the diversity in swimming behaviors that sperm exhibit from different species. Today, measurements of flagellar calcium signals on a fast time scale, discovery of the ion channels and organelles that may regulate these signals, and better understanding and quantitation of sperm swimming behaviors involved have given more certainty to our understanding of sperm directional swimming and its control by characteristic, calcium-directed asymmetric flagellar bends. Future research will need to apply these technical advances to other forms of sperm guidance such as thermotaxis and rheotaxis as well as gaining an understanding of how the flagellar apparatus is controlled by calcium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitoshi Sugiyama
- Science and Technology Group, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Okinawa, 904-0495, Japan
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23
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Amoako AA, Marczylo TH, Marczylo EL, Elson J, Willets JM, Taylor AH, Konje JC. Anandamide modulates human sperm motility: implications for men with asthenozoospermia and oligoasthenoteratozoospermia. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:2058-66. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
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24
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Alasmari W, Costello S, Correia J, Oxenham SK, Morris J, Fernandes L, Ramalho-Santos J, Kirkman-Brown J, Michelangeli F, Publicover S, Barratt CLR. Ca2+ signals generated by CatSper and Ca2+ stores regulate different behaviors in human sperm. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:6248-58. [PMID: 23344959 PMCID: PMC3585060 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.439356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
[Ca2+]i signaling regulates sperm motility, enabling switching between functionally different behaviors that the sperm must employ as it ascends the female tract and fertilizes the oocyte. We report that different behaviors in human sperm are recruited according to the Ca2+ signaling pathway used. Activation of CatSper (by raising pHi or stimulating with progesterone) caused sustained [Ca2+]i elevation but did not induce hyperactivation, the whiplash-like behavior required for progression along the oviduct and penetration of the zona pellucida. In contrast, penetration into methylcellulose (mimicking penetration into cervical mucus or cumulus matrix) was enhanced by activation of CatSper. NNC55-0396, which abolishes CatSper currents in human sperm, inhibited this effect. Treatment with 5 μm thimerosal to mobilize stored Ca2+ caused sustained [Ca2+]i elevation and induced strong, sustained hyperactivation that was completely insensitive to NNC55-0396. Thimerosal had no effect on penetration into methylcellulose. 4-Aminopyridine, a powerful modulator of sperm motility, both raised pHi and mobilized Ca2+ stored in sperm (and from microsomal membrane preparations). 4-Aminopyridine-induced hyperactivation even in cells suspended in Ca2+-depleted medium and also potentiated penetration into methylcellulose. The latter effect was sensitive to NNC55-039, but induction of hyperactivation was not. We conclude that these two components of the [Ca2+]i signaling apparatus have strikingly different effects on sperm motility. Furthermore, since stored Ca2+ at the sperm neck can be mobilized by Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release, we propose that CatSper activation can elicit functionally different behaviors according to the sensitivity of the Ca2+ store, which may be regulated by capacitation and NO from the cumulus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wardah Alasmari
- From the Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Medical School, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD1 9SY, Scotland, United Kingdom
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25
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Abstract
Ca2+i signalling is pivotal to sperm function. Progesterone, the best-characterized agonist of human sperm Ca2+i signalling, stimulates a biphasic [Ca2+]i rise, comprising a transient and subsequent sustained phase. In accordance with recent reports that progesterone directly activates CatSper, the [Ca2+]i transient was detectable in the anterior flagellum (where CatSper is expressed) 1–2 s before responses in the head and neck. Pre-treatment with 5 μM 2-APB (2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate), which enhances activity of store-operated channel proteins (Orai) by facilitating interaction with their activator [STIM (stromal interaction molecule)] ‘amplified’ progesterone-induced [Ca2+]i transients at the sperm neck/midpiece without modifying kinetics. The flagellar [Ca2+]i response was unchanged. 2-APB (5 μM) also enhanced the sustained response in the midpiece, possibly reflecting mitochondrial Ca2+ accumulation downstream of the potentiated [Ca2+]i transient. Pre-treatment with 50–100 μM 2-APB failed to potentiate the transient and suppressed sustained [Ca2+]i elevation. When applied during the [Ca2+]i plateau, 50–100 μM 2-APB caused a transient fall in [Ca2+]i, which then recovered despite the continued presence of 2-APB. Loperamide (a chemically different store-operated channel agonist) enhanced the progesterone-induced [Ca2+]i signal and potentiated progesterone-induced hyperactivated motility. Neither 2-APB nor loperamide raised pHi (which would activate CatSper) and both compounds inhibited CatSper currents. STIM and Orai were detected and localized primarily to the neck/midpiece and acrosome where Ca2+ stores are present and the effects of 2-APB are focussed, but store-operated currents could not be detected in human sperm. We propose that 2-APB-sensitive channels amplify [Ca2+]i elevation induced by progesterone (and other CatSper agonists), amplifying, propagating and providing spatio-temporal complexity in [Ca2+]i signals of human sperm.
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26
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Blomberg Jensen M, Dissing S. Non-genomic effects of vitamin D in human spermatozoa. Steroids 2012; 77:903-9. [PMID: 22414629 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2012.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2011] [Revised: 01/27/2012] [Accepted: 02/24/2012] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The spectrum for vitamin D (VD) mediated effects has expanded in recent years. Activated VD (1,25(OH)(2)D(3)) binds to the VD receptor (VDR) and mediates non-genomic effects through the alternative ligand binding-pocket (VDR-ap) or regulates gene transcription through the genomic binding-pocket. VDR and VD-metabolizing enzymes are expressed in human testis, male reproductive tract and mature spermatozoa, and VD is considered important for male reproduction. Expression of the VD-inactivating enzyme CYP24A1 at the annulus of human spermatozoa distinguish normal and infertile men with high specificity, and CYP24A1 expression is positively correlated with all semen variables and suggested as a marker for both semen quality and VD responsiveness. Moreover, spermatozoa are transcriptionally silent and are therefore a unique model to study non-genomic effects. 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) induced a rapid increase in intracellular calcium concentration [Ca(2+)](i) in human spermatozoa. The [Ca(2+)](i) increase was abrogated by the non-genomic VDR antagonist 1β,25(OH)(2)D(3), while the specific agonist for VDR-ap (JN) increased [Ca(2+)](i) with similar kinetics as 1,25(OH)(2)D(3). The rise in [Ca(2+)](i) originated as a Ca(2+)-release from intracellular stores since inhibition of phospholipase-C diminished the 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) mediated Ca(2+) response, while suspending spermatozoa in a nominally Ca(2+)-free medium did not affect the VD mediated Ca(2+) rise. The spatio-temporal kinetics of the VD-response differed from the progesterone-mediated increase in [Ca(2+)](i) as the VD-mediated Ca(2+) rise was not observed in the tail region and was independent of extracellular Ca(2+). A functional role of the VD-mediated Ca(2+) increase was supported by showing that 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) increased sperm motility and induced the acrosome reaction in vitro.
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27
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Sagare-Patil V, Galvankar M, Satiya M, Bhandari B, Gupta SK, Modi D. Differential concentration and time dependent effects of progesterone on kinase activity, hyperactivation and acrosome reaction in human spermatozoa. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 35:633-44. [PMID: 22775762 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2012.01291.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone has been identified to be one of the physiological regulators of sperm hyperactivation and acrosome reaction. However, the high sensitivity of human spermatozoa to progesterone implies that many may undergo premature hyperactivation and acrosome reaction thereby compromising their ability to fertilize. We hypothesized that if a spermatozoon has to preclude the occurrence of these events prematurely, there should be differential dose- and time-dependent effects on motility and acrosome reaction. We observed that low concentrations of progesterone (10 and 100 nm) induce sperm motility and activate tyrosine kinase; higher concentrations (1-10 μm) are required to induce extracellular signal regulated kinases 1/2 (Erk1/2), p90 ribosomal S6 kinase (p90RSK), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK1) and AKT phosphorylation, hyperactivation and acrosome reaction. The induction of acrosome reaction and tyrosine phosphorylation in response to higher concentration of progesterone is not absolutely dependent on activation of T-type voltage-gated Ca(2+) channel or CatSper as Mibefradil did not completely abrogate progesterone-mediated effects. These results imply that although the spermatozoa are sensitive to low concentrations of progesterone, they only activate motility and tyrosine kinase activation; higher concentrations are required to induce hyperactivation and acrosome reaction probably by activating multiple kinase pathways including the MAPK and AKT.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Sagare-Patil
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, Mumbai, India
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28
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Servin-Vences MR, Tatsu Y, Ando H, Guerrero A, Yumoto N, Darszon A, Nishigaki T. A caged progesterone analog alters intracellular Ca2+ and flagellar bending in human sperm. Reproduction 2012; 144:101-9. [PMID: 22580372 DOI: 10.1530/rep-11-0268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone is a physiological agonist for mammalian sperm, modulating its flagellar movement and facilitating the acrosome reaction. To study the initial action of progesterone, we developed a caged analog with a photosensitive group: nitrophenylethanediol, at position 20. Using this compound combined with stroboscopic illumination, we performed Ca(2)(+) imaging of human spermatozoa and analyzed the effects of progesterone on the intracellular Ca(2)(+) concentration ([Ca(2)(+)](i)) of beating flagella for the first time. We observed a transient [Ca(2)(+)](i) increase in the head and the flagellum upon photolysis of the caged progesterone and an increase in flagellar curvature. Detailed kinetic analysis revealed that progesterone elicits an increase in the [Ca(2)(+)](i) immediately in the flagellum (mid-piece and principal piece), thereafter in the head with a short time lag. This observation is different from the progesterone-induced Ca(2)(+) mobilization in mouse spermatozoa, where the Ca(2)(+) rise initiates at the base of the sperm head. Our finding is mostly consistent with the recent discovery that progesterone activates CatSper channels in human spermatozoa, but not in mouse spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Rocio Servin-Vences
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Apdo Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, Mexico
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29
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Burnett LA, Washburn CA, Sugiyama H, Xiang X, Olson JH, Al-Anzi B, Bieber AL, Chandler DE. Allurin, an amphibian sperm chemoattractant having implications for mammalian sperm physiology. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2012; 295:1-61. [PMID: 22449486 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-394306-4.00007-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Eggs of many species are surrounded by extracellular coats that emit ligands to which conspecific sperm respond by undergoing chemotaxis and changes in metabolism, motility, and acrosomal status in preparation for fertilization. Here we review methods used to measure sperm chemotaxis and focus on recent studies of allurin, a 21-kDa protein belonging to the Cysteine-RIch Secretory Protein (CRISP) family that has chemoattraction activity for both amphibian and mammalian sperm. Allurin is unique in being the first extensively characterized Crisp protein found in the female reproductive tract and is the product of a newly discovered amphibian gene within a gene cluster that has been largely conserved in mammals. Study of its expression, function, and tertiary structure could lead to new insights in the role of Crisp proteins in sperm physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey A Burnett
- Department of Animal Science, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
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30
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Darszon A, Nishigaki T, Beltran C, Treviño CL. Calcium Channels in the Development, Maturation, and Function of Spermatozoa. Physiol Rev 2011; 91:1305-55. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00028.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 243] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A proper dialogue between spermatozoa and the egg is essential for conception of a new individual in sexually reproducing animals. Ca2+ is crucial in orchestrating this unique event leading to a new life. No wonder that nature has devised different Ca2+-permeable channels and located them at distinct sites in spermatozoa so that they can help fertilize the egg. New tools to study sperm ionic currents, and image intracellular Ca2+ with better spatial and temporal resolution even in swimming spermatozoa, are revealing how sperm ion channels participate in fertilization. This review critically examines the involvement of Ca2+ channels in multiple signaling processes needed for spermatozoa to mature, travel towards the egg, and fertilize it. Remarkably, these tiny specialized cells can express exclusive channels like CatSper for Ca2+ and SLO3 for K+, which are attractive targets for contraception and for the discovery of novel signaling complexes. Learning more about fertilization is a matter of capital importance; societies face growing pressure to counteract rising male infertility rates, provide safe male gamete-based contraceptives, and preserve biodiversity through improved captive breeding and assisted conception initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Darszon
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Takuya Nishigaki
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Carmen Beltran
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Claudia L. Treviño
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
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31
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Tholl N, Naqvi S, McLaughlin E, Boyles S, Bieber AL, Chandler DE. Swimming of Xenopus laevis sperm exhibits multiple gears and its duration is extended by egg jelly constituents. THE BIOLOGICAL BULLETIN 2011; 220:174-185. [PMID: 21712226 DOI: 10.1086/bblv220n3p174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The motility of Xenopus sperm is initiated by the osmotic shock experienced when these cells are ejaculated into low-salinity pond water. Motility is brief and is required for the sperm to penetrate the jelly layers and fertilize the egg. In this study we demonstrate that extracts of egg jelly contain factors that extend the period of sperm motility as well as providing a chemoattractant activity as previously reported. Both activities are partially dependent on extracellular calcium. Time-lapse and video microscopy show that after activation of motility the number of motile sperm decreases rapidly, with a half-time of about 2 min. Addition of 10% v/v egg jelly extract ("egg water") increased the number of motile sperm 2-fold over controls at 20 s and about 4- to 10-fold over controls at 10 min after initiation of motility. Extension of motility lifetime was not mediated by a nonspecific protein or by allurin, the egg-water protein that has chemoattractant activity. The helical path of Xenopus sperm exhibited tight coupling between rotational and forward velocities in egg jelly, but coupling changed rapidly from moment to moment in low-salinity buffer. Our observations suggest that jelly-derived factors regulate both the longevity and directionality of sperm propulsion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Tholl
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-4501, USA
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32
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Olson SD, Fauci LJ, Suarez SS. Mathematical modeling of calcium signaling during sperm hyperactivation. Mol Hum Reprod 2011; 17:500-10. [PMID: 21606121 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gar040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian sperm must hyperactivate in order to fertilize oocytes. Hyperactivation is characterized by highly asymmetrical flagellar bending. It serves to move sperm out of the oviductal reservoir and to penetrate viscoelastic fluids, such as the cumulus matrix. It is absolutely required for sperm penetration of the oocyte zona pellucida. In order for sperm to hyperactivate, cytoplasmic Ca(2+) levels in the flagellum must increase. The major mechanism for providing Ca(2+) to the flagellum, at least in mice, are CatSper channels in the plasma membrane of the principal piece of the flagellum, because sperm from CatSper null males are unable to hyperactivate. There is some evidence for the existence of other types of Ca(2+) channels in sperm, but their roles in hyperactivation have not been clearly established. Another Ca(2+) source for hyperactivation is the store in the redundant nuclear envelope of sperm. To stabilize levels of cytoplasmic Ca(2+), sperm contain Ca(2+) ATPase and exchangers. The interactions between channels, Ca(2+) ATPases, and exchangers are poorly understood; however, mathematical modeling can help to elucidate how they work together to produce the patterns of changes in Ca(2+) levels that have been observed in sperm. Mathematical models can reveal interesting and unexpected relationships, suggesting experiments to be performed in the laboratory. Mathematical analysis of Ca(2+) dynamics has been used to develop a model for Ca(2+) clearance and for CatSper-mediated Ca(2+) dynamics. Models may also be used to understand how Ca(2+) patterns produce flagellar bending patterns of sperm in fluids of low and high viscosity and elasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- S D Olson
- Department of Mathematics, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70115 USA
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33
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Arienti G, Mazzoni M, Spapperi C, Saccardi C, Palmerini CA. Effect of FSH and progesterone on human spermatozoa cytosolic calcium. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2010; 120:180-3. [PMID: 20417711 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2010.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2009] [Revised: 04/14/2010] [Accepted: 04/15/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Ejaculated spermatozoa must undergo a number of modifications before fertilizing the oocyte: among these the capacitation and the acrosome reaction. Calcium signals play an essential role in these functional and structural modifications. Mature spermatozoa have few organelles and a very small cytoplasmic volume but maintain the homeostasis of [Ca(2+)](c) with great accuracy. We study Ca(2+) mobilization in human spermatozoa exposed to FSH and progesterone by measuring the [Ca(2+)](c) with the FURA-2AM method and report for the first time that the exposure to FSH (up to 98ng/ml) produced an increase of [Ca(2+)](c) to an extent comparable to that observed with 1muM progesterone. FSH and progesterone increase the spermatozoa [Ca(2+)](c) by acting primarily on calcium entry from the external medium. The effects of the two hormones on [Ca(2+)](c) were similar but not identical; the pre-treatment of progesterone blocks the effects of FSH, but not vice-versa. The increase of [Ca(2+)](c) due to FSH was more sensitive to nifedipine (VOCCs inhibitor) than that of progesterone. The effects of these hormones on calcium homeostasis may be relevant for sperm activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Arienti
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Internal Medicine, Via del Giochetto, 06127 Perugia, Italy
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34
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Baldi E, Luconi M, Muratori M, Marchiani S, Tamburrino L, Forti G. Nongenomic activation of spermatozoa by steroid hormones: facts and fictions. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2009; 308:39-46. [PMID: 19549590 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2009.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2008] [Revised: 01/30/2009] [Accepted: 02/17/2009] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The rapid effects of steroids on spermatozoa have been demonstrated for the first time two decades ago. Progesterone (P), which is present throughout the female genital tract with peaks of levels in the cumulus matrix surrounding the oocyte, stimulates several sperm functions, including hyperactivation and acrosome reaction. These effects are mediated by an extranuclear pathway, as P stimulates an influx of calcium, the tyrosine phosphorylation of sperm proteins and other signalling cascades in a rapid manner. Whether these effects are receptor mediated and which receptors mediate these effects are still a matter of discussion despite all the efforts of the scientific community aimed at identifying them during the last 20 years. Although responsiveness to P is related to sperm fertilizing ability, the physiological role of P during the process of fertilization is discussed, and recent evidence points for a role of the steroid as a chemotactic agent for sperm. A similar situation applies for estrogens (E), which have been shown to induce direct effects on sperm by an extranuclear pathway. In particular, E appear to decrease acrosome reaction in response to P, exerting a role in ensuring an appropriate timing for sperm exocytosis during the process of fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Baldi
- Dept. of Clinical Physiopathology, Andrology Unit, Center of Excellence for Research, Transfer and High Education DeNothe, University of Florence, Italy.
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Wang J, Jiang L, Gao X, Ding H, Wang Q, Cheng J, Gao R, Xiao H. Fenvalerate-induced Ca2+ transients via both intracellular and extracellular way in mouse GC-2spd (ts) cells. Toxicology 2009; 259:122-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2009.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2008] [Revised: 02/19/2009] [Accepted: 02/19/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Espino J, Mediero M, Lozano GM, Bejarano I, Ortiz Á, García JF, Pariente JA, Rodríguez AB. Reduced levels of intracellular calcium releasing in spermatozoa from asthenozoospermic patients. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2009; 7:11. [PMID: 19200382 PMCID: PMC2645411 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-7-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2008] [Accepted: 02/06/2009] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthenozoospermia is one of the most common findings present in infertile males characterized by reduced or absent sperm motility, but its aetiology remains unknown in most cases. In addition, calcium is one of the most important ions regulating sperm motility. In this study we have investigated the progesterone-evoked intracellular calcium signal in ejaculated spermatozoa from men with normospermia or asthenozoospermia. METHODS Human ejaculates were obtained from healthy volunteers and asthenospermic men by masturbation after 4-5 days of abstinence. For determination of cytosolic free calcium concentration, spermatozoa were loaded with the fluorescent ratiometric calcium indicator Fura-2. RESULTS Treatment of spermatozoa from normospermic men with 20 micromolar progesterone plus 1 micromolar thapsigargin in a calcium free medium induced a typical transient increase in cytosolic free calcium concentration due to calcium release from internal stores. Similar results were obtained when spermatozoa were stimulated with progesterone alone. Subsequent addition of calcium to the external medium evoked a sustained elevation in cytosolic free calcium concentration indicative of capacitative calcium entry. However, when progesterone plus thapsigargin were administered to spermatozoa from patients with asthenozoospermia, calcium signal and subsequent calcium entry was much smaller compared to normospermic patients. As expected, pretreatment of normospermic spermatozoa with both the anti-progesterone receptor c262 antibody and with progesterone receptor antagonist RU-38486 decreased the calcium release induced by progesterone. Treatment of spermatozoa with cytochalasin D or jasplakinolide decreased the calcium entry evoked by depletion of internal calcium stores in normospermic patients, whereas these treatments proved to be ineffective at modifying the calcium entry in patients with asthenozoospermia. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that spermatozoa from asthenozoospermic patients present a reduced responsiveness to progesterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Espino
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Matías Mediero
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | | | - Ignacio Bejarano
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Águeda Ortiz
- Extremadura Center of Human Assisted Reproduction, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Juan F García
- Extremadura Center of Human Assisted Reproduction, Badajoz, Spain
| | - José A Pariente
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Ana B Rodríguez
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
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Muratori M, Luconi M, Marchiani S, Forti G, Baldi E. Molecular markers of human sperm functions. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 32:25-45. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2008.00875.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Tubbs C, Thomas P. Progestin signaling through an olfactory G protein and membrane progestin receptor-alpha in Atlantic croaker sperm: potential role in induction of sperm hypermotility. Endocrinology 2009; 150:473-84. [PMID: 18801904 DOI: 10.1210/en.2008-0512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Progestin stimulation of sperm hypermotility remains poorly understood despite having been described in numerous vertebrate species. We show here that progestin stimulation of sperm hypermotility in a teleost, the Atlantic croaker (Micropogonias undulatus) is associated with activation of an olfactory G protein (Golf). Furthermore, we provide evidence that this progestin action is mediated by membrane progestin receptor-alpha (mPRalpha). Golf was identified in croaker sperm membranes and was specifically activated after treatment with the progestin 17,20beta,21-trihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (20beta-S). Treatment of sperm membranes with 20beta-S caused an increase in cAMP production, which was blocked by pretreatment with cholera toxin and two membrane adenylyl cyclase inhibitors: 2',5'-dideoxyadenosine and SQ22536. Moreover, preincubation of croaker sperm with 2',5'-dideoxyadenosine and SQ22536 resulted in a significant inhibition of 20beta-S-stimulated hypermotility. Binding of [3H]20beta-S to sperm membranes was decreased after pretreatment with GTPgammaS but not pertussis toxin, suggesting the receptor is coupled to a pertussis toxin-insensitive G protein. Golf and mPRalpha were coexpressed on the sperm midpiece and flagella and were coimmunoprecipitated from sperm membranes. Finally, expression of mPRalpha protein on sperm increased after in vivo treatment with LHRH and was associated with increased induction of sperm motility by 20beta-S. These results suggest that 20beta-S activates mPRalpha in croaker sperm, which in turn activates Golf and membrane adenylyl cyclase to stimulate sperm hypermotility. Taken together these findings provide a plausible mechanism by which progestins stimulate sperm hypermotility in croaker and provide the first evidence of hormonal activation of Golf in any species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Tubbs
- Marine Science Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Port Aransas, Texas 78373, USA.
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Machado-Oliveira G, Lefièvre L, Ford C, Herrero MB, Barratt C, Connolly TJ, Nash K, Morales-Garcia A, Kirkman-Brown J, Publicover S. Mobilisation of Ca2+ stores and flagellar regulation in human sperm by S-nitrosylation: a role for NO synthesised in the female reproductive tract. Development 2008; 135:3677-86. [PMID: 18842814 PMCID: PMC2777309 DOI: 10.1242/dev.024521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Generation of NO by nitric oxide synthase (NOS) is implicated in gamete interaction and fertilisation. Exposure of human spermatozoa to NO donors caused mobilisation of stored Ca(2+) by a mechanism that did not require activation of guanylate cyclase but was mimicked by S-nitroso-glutathione (GSNO; an S-nitrosylating agent). Application of dithiothreitol, to reduce protein -SNO groups, rapidly reversed the actions of NO and GSNO on [Ca(2+)](i). The effects of NO, GSNO and dithiothreitol on sperm protein S-nitrosylation, assessed using the biotin switch method, closely paralleled their actions on [Ca(2+)](i). Immunofluorescent staining revealed constitutive and inducible NOS in human oviduct and cumulus (the cellular layer investing the oocyte). 4,5-diaminofluorescein (DAF) staining demonstrated production of NO by these tissues. Incubation of human sperm with oviduct explants induced sperm protein S-nitrosylation resembling that induced by NO donors and GSNO. Progesterone (a product of cumulus cells) also mobilises stored Ca(2+) in human sperm. Pre-treatment of sperm with NO greatly enhanced the effect of progesterone on [Ca(2+)](i), resulting in a prolonged increase in flagellar excursion. We conclude that NO regulates mobilisation of stored Ca(2+) in human sperm by protein S-nitrosylation, that this action is synergistic with that of progesterone and that this synergism is potentially highly significant in gamete interactions leading to fertilisation.
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Shimizu Y, Minaguchi R, Ishikawa T, Harada T, Yoshiki N, Kubota T. Increase in the concentration of cytosolic-free calcium induced by human follicular fluid was decreased in single human spermatozoon with abnormal morphology. Reprod Med Biol 2008; 7:143-149. [PMID: 29699295 DOI: 10.1111/j.1447-0578.2008.00211.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: The increase in the concentration of cytosolic-free calcium ([Ca2+]i) induced by follicular fluid or progesterone has been reported to promote an acrosome reaction and alternation in several motion parameters in human sperm (hyperactivation). We previously reported that populations of sperm in cell suspension obtained from infertile men with abnormal morphology exhibited lower mean peak progesterone-evoked [Ca2+]i compared with morphologically normal sperm using cell-suspension methods. In the present study, the change in [Ca2+]i in individual normally and abnormally shaped spermatozoa was compared. Methods: The change in [Ca2+]i induced by human follicular fluid in individual spermatozoa with normal and abnormal morphology was compared using the fluorescent calcium-sensitive dye fluo-3/AM. The spatial distribution of the increase in [Ca2+]i in single sperm was also investigated. Results: The [Ca2+]i of normally shaped spermatozoa increased rapidly after the administration of human follicular fluid. The response reached a peak within 2-3 s and then slowly declined to a plateau phase. The baseline and peak fluorescence in spermatozoa with abnormal morphology was lower when compared with normal spermatozoa. The follicular-fluid-induced increase in [Ca2+]i (expressed as a percentage increase in [Ca2+]i over basal) in morphologically abnormal sperm was 39.2 ± 5.3% (n = 107, mean ± standard error), which was smaller than that of morphologically normal sperm (61.6 ± 5.7%, n = 100, P < 0.005) from seven healthy donors. The follicular-fluid-induced [Ca2+]i increases observed in sperm with morphologically abnormal mid-pieces (20.9 ± 4.3%, n = 12, P < 0.05) or tails (40.7 ± 6.0%, n = 92, P < 0.05) were lower than those of morphologically normal spermatozoa (61.6 ± 5.3%, n = 101). The follicular-fluid-induced [Ca2+]i increase of morphologically normal spermatozoa from infertile couples (35.1 ± 6.3%, n = 25, P < 0.05) was also found to be lower than that of morphologically normal spermatozoa from healthy donors. Conclusion: The present study shows that spermatozoa with abnormal morphology in healthy donors have disorders of signal transduction, as do normally shaped sperm in men from infertile couples. (Reprod Med Biol 2008; 7: 143-149).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasufumi Shimizu
- Department of Comprehensive Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Reiko Minaguchi
- Department of Comprehensive Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomonori Ishikawa
- Department of Comprehensive Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Harada
- Department of Comprehensive Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoyuki Yoshiki
- Department of Comprehensive Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshiro Kubota
- Department of Comprehensive Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Sperm hyperactivation is critical to fertilization, because it is required for penetration of the zona pellucida. Hyperactivation may also facilitate release of sperm from the oviductal storage reservoir and may propel sperm through mucus in the oviductal lumen and the matrix of the cumulus oophorus. Hyperactivation is characterized by high amplitude, asymmetrical flagellar bending. METHODS This is a review of the original literature on the mechanisms that regulate hyperactivation, including physiological factors and signaling pathways. RESULTS Computer-assisted semen analysis systems can be used to identify hyperactivated sperm by setting minimum thresholds for curvilinear velocity (VSL) and lateral head movement and a maximum threshold for path linearity. Hyperactivation is triggered by a rise in flagellar Ca(2+) resulting from influx primarily through plasma membrane CatSper channels and possibly also by release of Ca(2+) from a store in the redundant nuclear envelope. It requires increased pH and ATP production. The physiological signals that trigger the rise in Ca(2+) remain elusive, but there is evidence that the increased Ca(2+) acts through a calmodulin/calmodulin kinase pathway. Hyperactivation is considered part of the capacitation process; however, the regulatory pathway that triggers hyperactivation can operate independently from that which prepares sperm to undergo the acrosome reaction. Hyperactivation may be modulated by chemotactic signals to turn sperm toward the oocyte. CONCLUSIONS Little is known about exactly what triggers hyperactivation in human sperm. This information could enable clinicians to develop reliable fertility assays to assess normal hyperactivation in human sperm samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan S Suarez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, T5-002B Veterinary Research Tower, Cornell University Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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Bibliography. Current world literature. Adrenal cortex. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2008; 15:284-299. [PMID: 18438178 DOI: 10.1097/med.0b013e3283040e80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- U. Benjamin Kaupp
- Forschungszentrum Jülich, Institut für Neurowissenschaften und Biophysik 1, D-52425 Jülich, Germany;
| | - Nachiket D. Kashikar
- Forschungszentrum Jülich, Institut für Neurowissenschaften und Biophysik 1, D-52425 Jülich, Germany;
| | - Ingo Weyand
- Forschungszentrum Jülich, Institut für Neurowissenschaften und Biophysik 1, D-52425 Jülich, Germany;
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Lefièvre L, Bedu-Addo K, Conner SJ, Machado-Oliveira GSM, Chen Y, Kirkman-Brown JC, Afnan MA, Publicover SJ, Ford WCL, Barratt CLR. Counting sperm does not add up any more: time for a new equation? Reproduction 2007; 133:675-84. [PMID: 17504912 DOI: 10.1530/rep-06-0332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Although sperm dysfunction is the single most common cause of infertility, we have poor methods of diagnosis and surprisingly no effective treatment (excluding assisted reproductive technology). In this review, we challenge the usefulness of a basic semen analysis and argue that a new paradigm is required immediately. We discuss the use of at-home screening to potentially improve the diagnosis of the male and to streamline the management of the sub-fertile couple. Additionally, we outline the recent progress in the field, for example, in proteomics, which will allow the development of new biomarkers of sperm function. This new knowledge will transform our understanding of the spermatozoon as a machine and is likely to lead to non-ART treatments for men with sperm dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Lefièvre
- Reproductive Biology and Genetics Group, Division of Reproductive and Child Health, The Medical School, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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Publicover S, Harper CV, Barratt C. [Ca2+]i signalling in sperm — making the most of what you've got. Nat Cell Biol 2007; 9:235-42. [PMID: 17330112 DOI: 10.1038/ncb0307-235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 203] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Thanks to a worrying decrease in male fertility, understanding how sperm 'work' is a matter both of interest and great importance. Sperm of all animals detect various environmental cues. The 'behavioural' and physiological responses of sperm must be specific, appropriate and correctly timed. Strangely, in a cell with few organelles and minimal cytoplasmic volume, internal Ca(2+) concentration, [Ca(2+)](i), regulates almost all these activities. How does such a simple cell achieve this - and is it as simple as it seems?
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Publicover
- Stephen Publicover is in the School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
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